Marlborough: Bubbly brewers give local lowdown

The views from Queen Charlotte Drive provide incredible photo opportunities, say Marlborough vintners Daniel and Adele Le Brun. Photo / Creative Commons image by Flickr user life in still.

Daniel and Adele Le Brun give their tips on what to do when you're in their neighbourhood.

Marlborough vineyard owners Daniel and Adele Le Brun run No. 1 Family Estate, New Zealand's only winery specialising solely in the production of Methode Traditionelle.

"Marlborough has so much to offer. Our wine trail is a must-do and you can cycle the new Ride the Golden Mile," says Adele.

Down the road are the acclaimed Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre and the vintage vehicle museum. There's more province and wine industry history at the Marlborough Museum at Brayshaw Park.

In Picton, kick back by the new harbour on enormous canvas loungers and watch the ferries and small boats heading in and out.

"It's a great vibe," says Adele.

From Picton, Adele and Daniel like to take visitors along Queen Charlotte Drive.

"As most of our visitors are French their description is always, 'Formidable!' ... 'Superb'!"

The incredible vistas provide great photo opportunities.

"A visit to the Marlborough Sounds is obligatory and there are loads of lodges and private holiday houses to rent," she says.

"In winter there's skiing and you can have a picnic or walk around Lake Rotoiti.

"I've heard many overseas visitors say they have had the best coffee here in Blenheim. Ritual Cafe roasts their own coffee and has great vegan and gluten-free food."